Prezista (Darunavir) from Maple Leaf Medications.

Prezista (darunavir) Indications

Prezista, generic name darunavir, belongs to a class of antiretroviral drugs known as protease inhibitors used in the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.

HIV is a known virus that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T-cells), which are necessary for maintaining a healthy immune response. By inhibiting the protease enzyme, darunavir helps prevent the replication of the virus and slows down the progression of HIV infection.

Darunavir is typically prescribed as part of a combination therapy regimen with other antiretroviral drugs that enhance darunavir’s effectiveness and reduce the likelihood of drug resistance.

Prezista (darunavir) Uses and Dosage

Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional when taking darunavir. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific medical condition and needs.

The dosage of darunavir can vary depending on individual factors. However, the recommended dose is 600 mg (one 600 mg tablet or two 300 mg tablets) or 800 mg (two 400 mg tablets).

Darunavir is taken by mouth once or twice daily and best administered with food as this may help improve absorption and reduce the likelihood of stomach-related side effects.

Take darunavir tablets consistently and at the recommended time(s) as instructed by your prescriber.

Prezista (darunavir) Side Effects

Some common and mild side effects associated with darunavir include:

• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Mild skin rash
• Tiredness

Serious and rare side effects, which should be reported to your healthcare provider, that may occur with darunavir include:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Severe tiredness
• Muscle weakness
• Severe headache
• Joint pain
• Numbness or tingling of the extremities
• Vision changes
• Fever, chills, and swollen lymph nodes
• Overactive thyroid
• Uneasiness
• Loss of coordination
• Increased blood sugar levels
• Unusual sweating
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain

Further, patients must be mindful of the possibility of developing an allergy to this antiretroviral medication. Allergic reactions can be serious and may require emergency medical attention. Signs and symptoms of an allergy can include:

• Wheezing or difficulty breathing
• Skin rash and hives
• Itching
• Swelling

Prezista (darunavir) Cautions

Individuals with the following conditions should not take darunavir:

• Severe hepatic impairment
• Hemophilia
• Diabetes
• Lipid problems (high cholesterol or triglycerides)
• Cardiovascular conditions

Darunavir has the potential to interact with various medications, potentially influencing their efficacy. Please tell your prescriber of all medications you are taking. Medications that can interact with darunavir are:

• CYP3A4 inducers
• Ritonavir
• Cobicistat
• Statins
• Immunosuppressants
• Anticoagulants
• John’s wort

Taking darunavir may affect the liver. Therefore, regular monitoring of liver function is usually recommended while taking this medication. In addition, you must notify your healthcare provider immediately if you encounter any signs of liver problems.

Prezista (darunavir) Form and Strength

Prezista is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Prezista tablet
  • 75 mg
  • 150 mg
  • 600mg
  • 800 mg
  • 400 mg
• Darunavir oral suspension
  • 100 mg/mL
• Darunavir tablet
  • 75 mg
  • 150 mg
  • 600 mg
  • 800 mg

FAQ

Can Prezista be taken without food?

Taking Prezista without food may reduce the absorption of the medication into your bloodstream and decrease its effectiveness.

Can I discontinue Prezista whenever I want?

Consult your physician before discontinuing Prezista or any antiretroviral medication, as this can lead to viral rebound, where the HIV becomes active again and starts replicating.

Resources

1. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/021976s045_202895s020lbl.pdf
2. https://www.prezista.com/
3. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-144586/prezista-oral/details
4. https://www.drugs.com/prezista.html
5. https://www.rxlist.com/prezista-drug.htm